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Top 5 Waterproof Trekking Boots in Canada for 2025 — Expert Guide to Salomon, Arc'teryx, Scarpa, Lowa & Keen and Which One Best Balances Waterproofing, Breathability, and Sustainability

Published on Monday, August 25, 2025

Boots with reliable waterproof membranes and sealed construction keep feet dry in wet conditions without sacrificing breathability. In Canada, where coastal rain, spring thaw, boggy trails and sudden weather shifts are common, waterproof trekking boots are a top priority for hikers, backpackers and trail workers. Consumers in this market look for a balance of proven waterproof membranes (such as Gore-Tex or newer sustainable alternatives), durable water repellent (DWR) finishes, supportive midsoles, aggressive outsoles for wet traction, and fit that prevents hotspots. Recent trends emphasize lighter construction, sustainability — including PFC-free DWR and alternative membrane materials — and long-term value: durable boots that will resist moisture intrusion while allowing vapor to escape to reduce blisters and cold feet. This guide focuses on five models that represent the leading approaches to waterproof performance and practicality in Canada for 2025.

Quick Menu

1. Best for Heavy Loads

2. Best Lightweight Technical

3. Best for Alpine Approaches

4. Best All-Round Classic

5. Best Budget Wide-Fit

1
BEST FOR HEAVY LOADS

Salomon Quest 4 GTX

Salomon

The Salomon Quest 4 GTX earns its best-in-class spot as a long-distance, waterproof trekking boot thanks to a supportive chassis, durable leather/GORE-TEX construction and precise fit that minimizes hot spots on multi-day treks. Compared with the lighter Arc'teryx Acrux TR GTX and stiffer Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX, the Quest 4 strikes a balance of load-carrying support and underfoot comfort, giving strong technical performance at a price point that often undercuts ultra-premium rivals while offering superior ankle stability versus more casual options like the Keen and Lowa models.

4.5
★★★★☆

  • Armor-like ankle - fortress feel

  • Precision fit - second skin

  • Armor-like ankle - fortress feel

  • Precision fit - second skin

Review Summary

91%

"Users praise the Quest 4 GTX for its rugged support, outstanding ankle stability and reliable Gore‑Tex waterproofing, though many report it feels stiff and requires a break‑in period."

  • Aggressive outsole - bites rock

  • GORE-TEX membrane keeps feet dry in wet conditions.

  • Aggressive outsole - bites rock

  • GORE-TEX membrane keeps feet dry in wet conditions.

Enhanced Physical Well-Being

Skill Development & Mastery

Recreational Enjoyment

The Salomon Quest 4 GTX earns its best-in-class spot as a long-distance, waterproof trekking boot thanks to a supportive chassis, durable leather/GORE-TEX construction and precise fit that minimizes hot spots on multi-day treks. Compared with the lighter Arc'teryx Acrux TR GTX and stiffer Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX, the Quest 4 strikes a balance of load-carrying support and underfoot comfort, giving strong technical performance at a price point that often undercuts ultra-premium rivals while offering superior ankle stability versus more casual options like the Keen and Lowa models.

  • Armor-like ankle - fortress feel

  • Precision fit - second skin

  • Aggressive outsole - bites rock

  • GORE-TEX membrane keeps feet dry in wet conditions.

  • Robust chassis and high ankle support for long-distance stability.

  • Armor-like ankle - fortress feel

  • Precision fit - second skin

  • Aggressive outsole - bites rock

  • GORE-TEX membrane keeps feet dry in wet conditions.

  • Robust chassis and high ankle support for long-distance stability.

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From 323.11$
2
BEST LIGHTWEIGHT TECHNICAL

Arc'teryx Acrux TR GTX

Arc'teryx Acrux TR GTX
🏠 Local Product

The Arc'teryx Acrux TR GTX is the market leader for technical, waterproof trekking boots thanks to ultra-lightweight construction, laminated upper materials and precision fit that reduce weight without sacrificing weather protection. It’s generally pricier than the Lowa and Keen offerings but delivers a technical advantage for alpine approaches and fastpacking compared with heavier, more protective boots like the Salomon Quest 4 GTX and Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX.

4.4
★★★★☆

  • Featherlight agility - uphill sprint

  • Streamlined fit - ninja moves

  • Featherlight agility - uphill sprint

  • Streamlined fit - ninja moves

Review Summary

88%

"Buyers like the Arc'teryx Acrux TR GTX for its premium materials, light weight and precise fit with dependable waterproofing; a few mention its high price and firmer midsole that some find less cushioned on long approaches."

  • Gore-Tex waterproofing - keeps dry

  • GORE-TEX lining provides reliable waterproofing with good breathability.

  • Gore-Tex waterproofing - keeps dry

  • GORE-TEX lining provides reliable waterproofing with good breathability.

Enhanced Physical Well-Being

Skill Development & Mastery

Recreational Enjoyment

The Arc'teryx Acrux TR GTX is the market leader for technical, waterproof trekking boots thanks to ultra-lightweight construction, laminated upper materials and precision fit that reduce weight without sacrificing weather protection. It’s generally pricier than the Lowa and Keen offerings but delivers a technical advantage for alpine approaches and fastpacking compared with heavier, more protective boots like the Salomon Quest 4 GTX and Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX.

  • Featherlight agility - uphill sprint

  • Streamlined fit - ninja moves

  • Gore-Tex waterproofing - keeps dry

  • GORE-TEX lining provides reliable waterproofing with good breathability.

  • Light, agile construction designed for fast hiking and mixed terrain.

  • Featherlight agility - uphill sprint

  • Streamlined fit - ninja moves

  • Gore-Tex waterproofing - keeps dry

  • GORE-TEX lining provides reliable waterproofing with good breathability.

  • Light, agile construction designed for fast hiking and mixed terrain.

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$360-450 CAD

3
BEST FOR ALPINE APPROACHES

Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX

Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX

The Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX is a rugged, waterproof mountain-trekking boot prized for its stiff sole, durable leather upper and excellent traction for mixed terrain and scrambling. While heavier and a bit stiffer than the Salomon and Arc'teryx options, it offers superior abrasion resistance and durability for rocky routes and carries a mid-to-high price that reflects its long-term toughness compared with softer, more comfort-focused models like the Lowa Renegade or the budget-friendly Keen Targhee III.

4.3
★★★★☆

  • Scramble-ready grip - rock dancer

  • Rigid support - firm backbone

  • Scramble-ready grip - rock dancer

  • Rigid support - firm backbone

Review Summary

86%

"Reviewers appreciate the Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX for durable construction, excellent ankle support and solid waterproofing, but some find it a bit heavy and narrow for wider feet."

  • Leather longevity - ages gracefully

  • Full-grain suede upper with GORE-TEX for a balance of durability and waterproofing.

  • Leather longevity - ages gracefully

  • Full-grain suede upper with GORE-TEX for a balance of durability and waterproofing.

Enhanced Physical Well-Being

Skill Development & Mastery

Recreational Enjoyment

The Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX is a rugged, waterproof mountain-trekking boot prized for its stiff sole, durable leather upper and excellent traction for mixed terrain and scrambling. While heavier and a bit stiffer than the Salomon and Arc'teryx options, it offers superior abrasion resistance and durability for rocky routes and carries a mid-to-high price that reflects its long-term toughness compared with softer, more comfort-focused models like the Lowa Renegade or the budget-friendly Keen Targhee III.

  • Scramble-ready grip - rock dancer

  • Rigid support - firm backbone

  • Leather longevity - ages gracefully

  • Full-grain suede upper with GORE-TEX for a balance of durability and waterproofing.

  • Responsive midsole and precise fit suited to technical trails and approaches.

  • Scramble-ready grip - rock dancer

  • Rigid support - firm backbone

  • Leather longevity - ages gracefully

  • Full-grain suede upper with GORE-TEX for a balance of durability and waterproofing.

  • Responsive midsole and precise fit suited to technical trails and approaches.

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$300-380 CAD

4
BEST ALL-ROUND CLASSIC

Lowa Renegade GTX Mid

Lowa Renegade GTX Mid

The Lowa Renegade GTX Mid is the go-to waterproof trekking boot for hikers seeking dependable comfort, stable support and strong value for day hikes and light multi-day treks. It is less technical than the Salomon or Scarpa but often more affordable and easier to break in, making it a practical financial choice for many trekkers who want Gore-Tex protection and a proven midsole without the premium price of Arc'teryx-level technical materials.

4.6
★★★★☆

  • Cloud-like comfort - all-day lounge

  • Stable platform - carries loads

  • Cloud-like comfort - all-day lounge

  • Stable platform - carries loads

Review Summary

92%

"Long‑term users consistently call the Lowa Renegade GTX Mid comfortable out of the box, reliably waterproof and very durable for extended use, though a few note it can feel bulky for fast‑paced trekking."

  • Trusted waterproofing - rainproof shield

  • Proven nubuck leather upper combined with GORE-TEX for long-lasting waterproof protection.

  • Trusted waterproofing - rainproof shield

  • Proven nubuck leather upper combined with GORE-TEX for long-lasting waterproof protection.

Enhanced Physical Well-Being

Recreational Enjoyment

The Lowa Renegade GTX Mid is the go-to waterproof trekking boot for hikers seeking dependable comfort, stable support and strong value for day hikes and light multi-day treks. It is less technical than the Salomon or Scarpa but often more affordable and easier to break in, making it a practical financial choice for many trekkers who want Gore-Tex protection and a proven midsole without the premium price of Arc'teryx-level technical materials.

  • Cloud-like comfort - all-day lounge

  • Stable platform - carries loads

  • Trusted waterproofing - rainproof shield

  • Proven nubuck leather upper combined with GORE-TEX for long-lasting waterproof protection.

  • Comfort-focused fit with supportive ankle and cushioning for multi-day hikes.

  • Cloud-like comfort - all-day lounge

  • Stable platform - carries loads

  • Trusted waterproofing - rainproof shield

  • Proven nubuck leather upper combined with GORE-TEX for long-lasting waterproof protection.

  • Comfort-focused fit with supportive ankle and cushioning for multi-day hikes.

Order Now

$280-340 CAD

5
BEST BUDGET WIDE-FIT

Keen Targhee III Waterproof Mid

KEEN

The Keen Targhee III Waterproof Mid earns its place for trekkers prioritizing immediate comfort, a roomy toe box and wallet-friendly pricing in a waterproof package. It uses KEEN.DRY waterproofing and a generous fit that out-of-the-box feels more comfortable than many stiffer, technical boots, though it trades off high-load support and the refined mountaineering capability of offerings like the Salomon Quest 4 GTX or Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX.

4.2
★★★★☆

  • Roomy toe box - wiggle-friendly

  • Protective toe cap - bump survivor

  • Roomy toe box - wiggle-friendly

  • Protective toe cap - bump survivor

Review Summary

84%

"Owners praise the Keen Targhee III Waterproof Mid for roomy comfort, strong toe protection and dependable waterproofing at a budget‑friendly price, while some report quicker outsole wear and a less precise fit."

  • Cushioned ride - trail lounge

  • KEEN.DRY waterproof membrane keeps water out while allowing moisture to escape.

  • Cushioned ride - trail lounge

  • KEEN.DRY waterproof membrane keeps water out while allowing moisture to escape.

Enhanced Physical Well-Being

Recreational Enjoyment

The Keen Targhee III Waterproof Mid earns its place for trekkers prioritizing immediate comfort, a roomy toe box and wallet-friendly pricing in a waterproof package. It uses KEEN.DRY waterproofing and a generous fit that out-of-the-box feels more comfortable than many stiffer, technical boots, though it trades off high-load support and the refined mountaineering capability of offerings like the Salomon Quest 4 GTX or Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX.

  • Roomy toe box - wiggle-friendly

  • Protective toe cap - bump survivor

  • Cushioned ride - trail lounge

  • KEEN.DRY waterproof membrane keeps water out while allowing moisture to escape.

  • Roomy toe box and comfortable fit straight from the trailhead.

  • Roomy toe box - wiggle-friendly

  • Protective toe cap - bump survivor

  • Cushioned ride - trail lounge

  • KEEN.DRY waterproof membrane keeps water out while allowing moisture to escape.

  • Roomy toe box and comfortable fit straight from the trailhead.

Order Now
From 211.54$

What research and testing say about waterproof membranes, breathability and foot health

Scientific testing and independent lab protocols help explain why properly designed waterproof trekking boots improve comfort and reduce foot problems on wet trails. Waterproof membranes work by blocking liquid water while permitting water vapor to pass; breathability, measured as moisture vapor transport, and waterproofness, often measured by hydrostatic head, are complementary metrics. Clinical and biomechanical research shows that managing foot moisture lowers blister incidence, reduces skin maceration and improves thermal comfort. Recent environmental research has driven the outdoor industry toward PFC-free durable water repellent (DWR) treatments and alternative membrane chemistries that reduce persistent perfluorinated contaminants.

Membrane function: Membranes like PTFE-based and newer polymer membranes block liquid water yet allow vapor transfer. Lab metrics such as hydrostatic head (mm) and MVTR (moisture vapor transmission rate) quantify these properties.

Foot health: Studies and field reports link better moisture control to fewer blisters and lower skin maceration risk, because dry, well-ventilated microclimates inside boots reduce friction-related injury.

Thermal performance: Waterproof-but-breathable systems help maintain foot temperature by reducing wet cooling from soaked uppers and socks, improving comfort and reducing risk of cold-related issues on long treks.

DWR and environment: Research into persistent PFCs has accelerated the shift to PFC-free DWR formulas and membranes made from less persistent chemistries; these alternatives aim to preserve water repellency while reducing environmental persistence.

Real-world testing: Independent lab tests and long-term field trials remain the best predictors of durability and sustained waterproof performance; consumers should balance initial lab scores with reputation for long-term durability.

In Canada, reliable waterproof trekking boots make multi-day trips, wet spring hikes and coastal trails far more comfortable and safer. The five models covered here — Salomon Quest 4 GTX, Arc'teryx Acrux TR GTX, Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX, Lowa Renegade GTX Mid, and Keen Targhee III Waterproof Mid — each take a different, well-tested approach to sealing out water while managing breathability and comfort. For most Canadian hikers seeking the best balance of comfort, reliable waterproofing, and everyday versatility, the Lowa Renegade GTX Mid stands out as the best overall choice; those needing heavier-duty support should consider the Salomon Quest 4 GTX or Arc'teryx Acrux TR GTX, and those who value a more lightweight or casual trekking option may prefer the Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX or Keen Targhee III Waterproof Mid. I hope you found what you were looking for — use the search to refine by fit, weight, price or sustainability features to narrow or expand your options.

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